Vice President Kashim Shettima has commended President Bola Tinubu for his foresight in establishing regional development commissions across the country.
He emphasised that the bodies were created to unlock the distinct economic potential of Nigeria’s geopolitical zones for national prosperity.
Shettima made the statement on Wednesday, when he hosted the newly constituted management team of the South West Development Commission (SWDC), led by its Board Chairman, Olubunmi Adetunmbi, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
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Charging the board to operate with innovation, integrity, and transparency, Shettima noted that the success of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda lies in converting government policies into practical benefits for citizens.
He underscored that the South-West region—given its rich heritage in education, industry, commerce, and enterprise—is strategically positioned to lead key development initiatives.
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“Your commission must be known for delivery, not bureaucracy. Nigerians will measure your success by the quality of roads built, jobs created, businesses supported, and communities transformed,” Shettima stated.
He further emphasised that all planned projects should be measurable, transparent, and designed to attract private sector investment, noting that the primary responsibility of the government is to establish an enabling environment where capital can thrive.
He called for strong synergy among subnational governments, traditional institutions, private sector leaders, and international development partners.
He cautioned against inter-agency rivalry, stressing that regional growth relies on institutional cooperation rather than competition.
Additionally, he advised the SWDC leadership to engage in active peer-review exercises with other regional development commissions across Nigeria to share ideas and adopt best practices.
Earlier during the meeting, SWDC Board Chairman Olubunmi Adetunmbi expressed gratitude to the Tinubu administration for initiating structural and economic reforms that birthed the regional commissions.
He also praised l Shettima’s leadership of the National Economic Council (NEC), which he noted has significantly boosted project execution across states.
Outlining the commission’s operational roadmap, Adetunmbi disclosed plans to conduct a comprehensive baseline study across the South-West zone.
The study will serve as a guide for targeted interventions in physical infrastructure, human capital development, and related socio-economic projects.
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He also requested Shettima’s support and guidance via the NEC to ensure harmonious collaboration with state governments and prevent the duplication of developmental projects.
The delegation at the Villa included the Managing Director of the SWDC, Charles Akinola, along with executive directors and board members representing various states and geopolitical zones.
